The nation honors the extraordinary courage of Sub-Inspector Mohd Imteyaj and Constable Deepak Chingakham, heroes of Operation Sindoor, who laid down their lives defending the nation. These brave soldiers from the 7th Border Security Force battalion were awarded the Vir Chakra posthumously for their exceptional gallantry during a fierce cross-border attack.
Operation Sindoor, a decisive response to the April 22 Pahalgam terror incident, saw Pakistani forces launch a multi-pronged assault including mortar shelling and drone incursions on the Kharkola Border Outpost in Jammu on May 10. Amidst the chaos and destruction, SI Imteyaj, critically wounded by an enemy mortar shell, inspired his men with a powerful battle cry, “Jawano, aaj khatam kar do inko,” urging them to fight to the end. His leadership persisted even as he faced fatal wounds.
Constable Chingakham, also severely injured in the same attack, displayed remarkable resilience. Refusing medical evacuation, he stayed at his post, fighting alongside his injured superior and fellow soldiers until his final moments. Their refusal to yield, their ultimate sacrifice, and their crucial role in thwarting the enemy’s advance were recognized with the prestigious Vir Chakra. This operation highlighted the BSF’s unwavering commitment and the immense bravery of its personnel.